Satellite images obtained by Fox News Digital reveal the extent of damage to the US-installed pier in Gaza, prompting questions about the effectiveness of aid deliveries and the Biden administration's strategy toward the conflict.
Satellite images obtained by Fox News Digital have shed light on the severe damage sustained by the US-installed temporary pier off the coast of Gaza, casting doubt on the effectiveness of aid deliveries and the Biden administration's strategy toward the ongoing conflict.
The images, taken by Maxar Technologies, show that less than a third of the $320 million pier remains intact, with the deeper sections of the structure completely destroyed. The damage occurred due to choppy weather, leading to the suspension of aid deliveries.
The failure of the pier has sparked a debate over the effectiveness of US aid to Gaza and the Biden administration's approach to the conflict. Critics argue that the aid is not reaching those who need it and is instead falling into the hands of Hamas, the terrorist group that rules Gaza.
"It's ridiculous to continue sending aid to Gaza. It only helps our enemies," said Garrett Exner, an adjunct fellow at the Hudson Institute.
Pentagon officials have confirmed that none of the aid delivered to Gaza through the pier had reached Palestinians as of last week. This raises concerns about the transparency and accountability of the aid distribution process.
The pier's failure comes as Israel conducted a sizable operation in Rafah, with tanks rolling into the heart of the city for the first time since the war began. Witnesses reported the use of remote-operated armored vehicles, raising questions about the nature of the Israeli military's operations.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has heightened tensions between Israel and the United States. The images of the destroyed pier further highlight the challenges of delivering aid and maintaining stability in the region.
The pier's failure has also fueled concerns over its cost and security implications. Critics argue that the money spent on the pier could have been better utilized to address humanitarian needs in other parts of the world.
The damage to the pier occurred despite the presence of stabilizing vessels to protect it. Two of these vessels floated away and landed on a beach in Israel, raising questions about the security of the pier and the aid it was supposed to deliver.
The images of the destroyed pier have also drawn international attention. The United Nations has expressed concern about the impact of the damage on the delivery of aid to Gazans.
The failure of the pier and the ongoing conflict in Gaza may prompt the Biden administration to reconsider its approach to the region. The administration had previously supported the installation of the pier as a means of delivering aid and promoting stability.
The future of US aid to Gaza remains uncertain. The Biden administration faces a difficult balancing act in providing humanitarian assistance while ensuring that aid does not fall into the hands of terrorist groups. The images of the destroyed pier serve as a stark reminder of the challenges of this task.
